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A Tech Headquarters in LA Shines With Hospitality-Driven Design

09.04.24 | By
A Tech Headquarters in LA Shines With Hospitality-Driven Design

Tech mega-hubs are a study in extremes. They are either awash in too-loud color or neutral and utilitarian. Yet in Los Angeles, California, a technology company’s new headquarters more closely resembles a resort setting than a corporate campus, with hospitality-driven interiors by MAWD | March and White Design. The designers purposely steered clear of preconceived notions of what these offices typically look like. “We detailed the space so that it has a hospitality feel, like you are walking into a hotel, not a corporate office,” says Elliot March, co-founder of MAWD.

A modern kitchen with a central island, stools, hanging light fixtures, and large windows providing natural light. The area is decorated with plants and has a polished floor.

There’s not only a warm, inviting aura, but also an array of office and amenity spaces that encourage collaboration. However, in a center for up to 2,000 employees, it was essential to ensure a seamless flow throughout the building. A grand connective staircase, surrounded by a mix of textured walnut and glass, serves as a link between the primary working floors while also adding transparency.

Modern lounge area with marble countertops, bar stools, and a large contemporary chandelier. Sunlight streams in through the large windows, highlighting the sleek interior design and city view.

Modern coffee shop interior with a long counter and high chairs, black ceiling lights, greenery on top shelves, and a mix of wood and black finishes.

Collaboration is prioritized, with an entire floor allocated to meeting space. The diverse range of interiors support a variety of functions for individuals and groups. Huddle rooms are ideal for video conferencing calls, while formal boardrooms are utilized by leadership. Pods, custom wrapped to align with the office’s overall style, are available for those who need quieter spots for focused work. Plush sofas and cozy sitting areas are dotted throughout the office, which lends added comfort.

A modern lounge with an open layout features a long bar with stools, round tables with chairs and sofas, large windows with sheer curtains, greenery accents, and multiple hanging pendant lights.

The abundant sunlight and surrounding landscape influenced the hues and material palette. The progression of light to dark in key sections frames the space, highlighting the spectacular views of the San Gabriel Mountains. Darkened wood, bronze, and brass metals provide contrast to the soft upholstery fabrics and the cream tints, tied together with touches of greenery.

Modern interior space with sleek black and white furniture, including a bar stool and armchairs, pendant lights, and green plants. Large windows and minimalistic design elements are present.

There’s also an unexpected democratization, with both the management and designers embracing a company-up strategy for space allocation, rather than a traditional top-down approach. While there are dedicated rooms for founders and other executives, lounges are just as plentiful on every floor, and are accessible to all. The gathering lounge is one of the most popular places for staff to relax, socialize, or simply enjoy the sunset. Complete with a large “fire” (actually water vapor) pit, individuals can grab drinks from the bar and then congregate there for an impromptu happy hour.

A modern living room features a large bay window with sheer curtains, a gray sofa, two white chairs, a coffee table, and several potted plants.

Modern office workspace with long wooden tables, green plants, gray chairs, and overhead lighting fixtures in an industrial-style setting.

A modern indoor lounge with a central gas fireplace, surrounded by seating, large windows offer a panoramic view of a cityscape during twilight.

With nearly perfect weather year-round, the studio emphasized a strong indoor-outdoor connection. Several terraces, team areas, and barbecue stations serve as an extended breakout zone, which gives staff ample opportunities to savor fresh air and sunlight during the day. There are over three floors of amenity space, but the basement offers a surprise. Originally designated for storage, this lower level has a five-a-side soccer pitch. It’s a favorite of many sports enthusiasts who attend the intercompany matches.

A modern lounge area with large windows offering scenic mountain views. The space features comfortable seating with sofas and armchairs, a central round coffee table, and overhead hanging lights.

An empty conference room with large windows showcasing a mountain view, rows of tables and chairs, a geometric ceiling design, and a plant by the window.

Modern office space with open seating, individual work booths, and large windows providing natural light. One person works on a laptop at a communal table, while another is seated in a private booth.

A modern conference room with a large table and black chairs, featuring a panoramic window with a view of a mountain range.

A modern interior staircase with black steps and glass railings ascends between wooden slatted walls and an illuminated number eight on the right.

The mix of residential and hospitality elements elevates the total experience for staff. “We were intentional about making this place as welcoming as possible for people coming back to the office,” March adds.

Indoor soccer field with artificial turf, a lone soccer ball, and a scoreboard indicating a home team score of 22 and guest team score of 28 with 4:55 remaining.

To learn more about March and White Design’s practice, visit mawd.co.

Photography by Adam Potts.

Anna Zappia is a New York City-based writer and editor with a passion for textiles, and she can often be found at a fashion exhibit or shopping for more books. Anna writes the Friday Five column, as well as commercial content.